Keep on blaaaaahing and mind dumping! How lucky you are to have the ocean nearby to plunge into even when the weather isn't conducive. It's one of the things that I must give myself time for these holidays. The ocean is certainly therepeutic. While my sons are older than yours (my youngest was 13 at diagnosis), they are certainly the reason for not giving up. It's great to hear the positivity in your blogs but remember that you are only human and there may be some down days. When that happens - blog away!! Samex ... View more

My goodness Julie - that is so wise! As usual, I was heavy handed with myself for making the judgements. You have assured me now that it is only if I behave inconsiderately, I guess, then I may encounter problems. Thanks. ... View more

Like the pizza! have you taken one of the tree? S ... View more

That's great VickiAnne. You may continue to feel tired for a while so don't bust yourself at this time of year. The energy will come back slowly and each day you will feel stronger. Just be conscious that there may be times that may present obstacles in adjusting to the "new normal". I had problems down the line with this sdjustment but I know that others just zoom back into life. It is great to hear you so optimistic! Well done! Samex ... View more

I must find this book for some holiday rading. It seems to sum up my/our situation so well. The "quest" seems to be constantly thwarted by the "restitution". (If I have the terms correct)I KNOW what needs to be done but the inabaility to say no and constantly putting others first creates such conflict. I am becoming much more aware of my emtional limits these days, however. While I want to grasp every moment I sometimes can't cope wiht the noise and exhuberance of others. Hence I didn't go to a staff dinner this week. Julie, I agree about the observations of others. I often have to stop myself making judgements though. S ... View more

Perfect timing. I just received ionformation through Cancer Council that the powers that be will probably not be proceeding with early bowel cancer screenings. S ... View more

Vicki just let Christmas happen. I know that i did when I was on chemo. Let someone else do the work and just try and relax. the good thing is you shouldn't have your wonderful fashion accessory of your 5-FU. The nurses at my clinic had a variety of colours and we would often laugh at matching the bag to our "ensembles". If you don't laugh, you go mad! Take it easy, glad the feet are a bit better. S ... View more

Jewel, Please remember that you can always come here. It won't stop the pain but at least you can "talk" to others who may have some understanding. I have "only" lost wonderful friends to these dreaded disease at young ages but the wife of my friend experienced exactly what you are. Her doctor finally helped her anxiety with medication and counselling. If your doctor won't help you, find one who will. It is real. Very real - not just in your head. My heart goes out to you, Samex ... View more

So pleased that you are feeling better Willow. The stress knocks you around and I believe that so many of us aren't honest with those around us for a variety of reasons. It is SO difficult to take control of your life at times when you feel that it is overwhelming and out of control. PLEASE talk to your GP and head down the counselling road and if they recommend anti - depressants, don'r dismiss them out of hand. They have been my saving grace, along with the counselling.In fact I saw a friend/neighbour who channelled me along this route this time last year and she was making sure that I wasn't stressing myself too much and ensuring that I was still using the medication to help me through Christmas etc.It is great to have such thoughtful friends who understand. Anyway, again, so pleased that you are sounding so much more in control - but seek the help Take care, S ... View more

Sounds like a genuine reprieve for sure. So glad to hear it. 7 litres of fluid, he must have been so sore, poor man. Enjoy your birthday. S ... View more